Get ready to fall in love with the zesty, creamy, and utterly unforgettable Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine! This dish is a true flavor adventure, bringing together juicy spiced chicken, silky linguine, and a luxuriously rich cowboy butter sauce with just the right amount of heat. Every twirl of pasta is coated in a velvety blend of Dijon, garlic, and just a hint of cayenne, perfectly balanced by a splash of lemon and topped off with fresh parsley. Whether it’s cozy weeknights or casual entertaining, Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine will effortlessly charm anyone who takes a bite.

Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The list may look simple, but each ingredient plays a key role in building unforgettable layers of flavor, color, and texture in your Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. From the spices that warm the chicken to the fresh brightness of lemon and parsley, here’s what you’ll need—and why it matters.

Linguine pasta: The perfect shape to catch every bit of that buttery cream sauce, but feel free to swap in fettuccine or penne if you like.
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Sliced into strips, they cook quickly and soak up all those delicious spices and sauce.
Paprika: Adds a smoky depth and subtle color, setting the tone for that cowboy flair.
Garlic powder: Delivers savory backbone that infuses each bite of chicken.
Onion powder: Brings gentle sweetness and boosts the overall flavor profile.
Cayenne pepper: Kicks things up with a gentle heat—adjust for more or less spice!
Salt and black pepper: Essential as always, to bring out every other flavor.
Olive oil: For golden, tender chicken and a hint of richness right from the start.
Unsalted butter: The star of the sauce, lending a signature creamy, decadent touch.
Garlic (fresh, minced): Adds pungent, aromatic flair that’s key to cowboy butter’s unmistakable taste.
Crushed red pepper flakes: A sprinkle adds visual interest and a lively zing.
Dijon mustard: Gives the sauce its signature tang and complexity—don’t skip it!
Worcestershire sauce: A little bit goes a long way, adding depth and umami.
Lemon juice: Freshens up the sauce and balances all the rich flavors.
Heavy cream: Makes the sauce irresistibly smooth—use full-fat for ultimate creaminess.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty, salty magic and helps the sauce thicken beautifully.
Chopped fresh parsley: For a pop of vivid green and a fresh, finishing aroma.

How to Make Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Be sure to reserve a half cup of the pasta water before draining—it can make all the difference in achieving the silkiest Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine sauce. Set the cooked pasta aside while you prepare the rest.

Step 2: Season and Sauté the Chicken

Toss the sliced chicken breast in a bowl with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high, then add the chicken. Let it sizzle for 5 to 6 minutes, making sure each piece gets golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate for now, leaving the flavorful drippings behind in the skillet.

Step 3: Build the Cowboy Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Stir in the chopped garlic and red pepper flakes for a minute, basking in the fabulous aroma. Next, add Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a splash of lemon juice. Continue stirring for about a minute, letting all the flavors meld together.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and turns irresistibly creamy. If you love extra heat or tang, here’s your chance to adjust the seasoning a little more.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the linguine. Toss thoroughly so every noodle is generously coated. Add a bit of the reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce until it’s perfectly luscious—this is where Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine truly comes alive. Finish with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve hot!

How to Serve Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine

Garnishes

Garnishing isn’t just for looks—it’s the finishing touch that brings out the best in Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine. Scatter extra fresh parsley over the top for fragrance and color, or shave a little more Parmesan for richness. If you’re feeling spicy, a pinch more crushed red pepper never hurts!

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty linguine with fresh, crunchy sides for balance. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette keeps the meal vibrant, while steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus fits right in. And honestly, warm crusty bread to mop up the last of the cowboy butter sauce wouldn’t be out of place here.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine in a big family-style bowl, or plate it in elegant twirls with chicken fanned on top for that restaurant vibe. For a playful twist, try baking leftovers in a small casserole with extra cheese or packing it up in vibrant lunch bowls with a wedge of lemon on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before storing, and keep any garnishes separate so they stay fresh.

Freezing

While creamy pasta dishes are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to a month if needed. The sauce may separate ever so slightly upon thawing, but a gentle reheat with a splash of milk or cream will help bring it back together.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or pop individual portions in the microwave. Add a spoonful of reserved pasta water or a splash of cream to revive the sauce, and toss well until the Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is just heated through and silky again.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While linguine soaks up the cowboy butter sauce beautifully, fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne all work great. Just adjust the cook time as needed and enjoy the same great flavors with your favorite shape.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The cayenne and red pepper flakes add a mild kick, but it’s not overwhelmingly hot. If you’re sensitive to spice or cooking for kids, simply reduce or leave out the cayenne and flakes for a gentler version of Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine.

Can I add veggies to the dish?

Definitely! A handful of baby spinach or sliced mushrooms can go right into the skillet—add them just before the cream to wilt or soften. It’s a great way to add nutrition and extra texture.

What’s a shortcut if I’m short on time?

Rotisserie chicken is your best friend here. Skip the sauté step and toss in shredded chicken at the end, letting it warm through in the sauce for a speedy yet delicious dinner.

Does this reheat well for meal prep?

It does! Make sure to store the pasta and sauce together and add extra liquid when reheating for best results. Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine makes for a seriously satisfying lunch the next day.

Final Thoughts

If comfort food with a twist is what you crave, Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine is a guaranteed home run. Trust me, even those who rarely stray from traditional pasta tosses will be reaching for second helpings! Grab your skillet, gather your loved ones, and get ready for a meal that’s bold, buttery, and truly memorable.

Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine Recipe

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4.5 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a deliciously creamy and flavorful dish with this Creamy Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine recipe. Tender strips of chicken are cooked to perfection and tossed with a rich and savory Dijon cream sauce, then combined with al dente linguine for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredients

Scale

Linguine Pasta:

12 ounces linguine pasta

Chicken:

1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (sliced into strips)

Seasoning:

1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Salt and black pepper to taste

Sauce:

2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

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Instructions

Cook Linguine: Cook linguine according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Prepare Chicken: Season chicken with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Cook in olive oil until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Make Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and add garlic, red pepper flakes, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Add heavy cream and Parmesan, simmer until creamy.
Combine: Return chicken to skillet, add linguine. Toss together, adding reserved pasta water as needed. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.